Back in Mississippi, I participated in a Saturday morning coffee group. For 10 years, I religiously met with others at 9am wondering what the day’s topic would be. My wife would often comment about how I couldn’t get up for work on time during the week, but I wouldn’t miss the Saturday Coffee to save my life. She is so right!
The Saturday Coffee is a group of people who gather primarily interested in discussing and strategizing on how to solve Jackson, Mississippi, and national issues. It’s an eclectic group with varied interest including: business, non-profit, legal, law enforcement, financial, government, education, etc. These folks have become my best friends: Doc, Toni, Pam, Ken, Jan, Jamal, Kevin, Nicole, Jonathan, David, Les, Major, Richard, Michael, Jeff, Kim, Shante, Ray, Von, Milton, Don, Joycelyn, etc.
Weekly, we discussed subjects such as voter registration/participation, affordable housing, education, entrepreneurship, civic engagement, etc. Occassionally, a member would be inspired to actively get involved in a particular area and try to make a meaningful difference. Others would support with resources or possibly connections.
I was drawn to the group because of its focus on making a difference. The group doesn’t expect government to solve all community problems. The group also recognizes that we have to be the change we expect. The idea of giving back and service struck a chord with me.
The group’s founder/leader is Doc. He is an incredible man with an impressive background: military veteran, retired college dean and educator, and social entreprenuer. I was always moved by his words to the group: What Can “We” Do Right Now?” Whenever the group drifted off topic, made excuses, relied on someone else, or placed blame, Doc would stop the bantering is his calm voice and ask, “What Can “We” Do Right Now?” I always felt he was talking directly to me.
While here at FPC Montgomery, I will sorely miss my weekly Jackson meeting. However, I’m not going to miss the Saturday Coffee group. My temporary community has its own set of challenges. Inmates need financial literacy, mentorship, entrepreneural training, health & wellness education, job training, etc. While the institution has resources for many of these services, hearing from another respected inmate can be extremely impactful.
So, What Can “I” Do Right Now? I can find ways to use my skills and experiences to help others. I can start by being a role model with a great attitude. I can be open and approachable. I can find ways to share knowledge. I can cheer for others success. I want others to rememeber me and the impact that I had on their life. Similarly, I will remember them and their impact on me.
The moral of this blog is that the the Saturday Coffee is not about Jackson. The Saturday Coffee is about What Can “You” Do Right Now to make a difference wherever you are.
